Customer service

Tips for a Better Auto Repair Experience

From the team at Central Valley Towing & Automotive

Today’s cars, light trucks, and SUVs are more advanced than ever—with digital dashboards, electronic control systems, and high-efficiency engines. While technology has improved performance and reliability, some aspects of vehicle care remain timeless.

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your repair experience:

Do Your Homework

  • Read your owner's manual to understand your car's systems.

  • Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule.

  • Keep a log of all service and repairs for future reference.

Use Your Senses

As the person who drives your vehicle every day, you know when something feels “off.” Pay attention to:

  • Sounds – clunks, squeals, or grinding

  • Smells – burning, fuel, or musty odors

  • Leaks or smoke

  • Dashboard warning lights or strange gauge readings

  • Performance issues – acceleration, braking, mileage, vibrations

Take Note of the Details

  • When did the issue start?

  • Is it constant or intermittent?

  • Does it happen only when the engine is hot, cold, accelerating, or braking?

Communicate Clearly

  • Bring a written list of symptoms to help our technicians.

  • Describe what’s happening without suggesting a specific repair—just like you would describe symptoms to a doctor and let them diagnose the issue.

Stay Involved

  • Don’t hesitate to ask questions until you fully understand the repair process.

  • Request that we contact you before beginning repairs with a diagnosis and estimate.

  • Clarify shop policies about labor rates, warranties, and payment methods.

Keep the Line Open

  • Leave a phone number where you can be reached during the repair process.

  • By staying informed and engaged, you’ll help ensure your vehicle gets the care it needs—and your experience is smooth from start to finish.

    • Need service now?
      Visit us at 777 N Burke Street in Visalia
      Call (559) 734-4028 to schedule your appointment

Car Warranty Scams FAQs

  • Have you received a suspicious call claiming your car’s warranty or insurance is about to expire? You’re not alone. Car warranty scams are on the rise, and they’re designed to trick vehicle owners into sharing personal information.

    How the Scam Works:

    • The call often begins with a pre-recorded or automated message asking you to press a number to speak with a representative.

    • A live caller then pretends to be from your automaker or insurance provider, warning that your coverage is about to end.

    • They may even have specific details about your vehicle to make the call sound legitimate.

    • Next, they ask for personal or financial information, which is then used to commit fraud.

    Don’t Fall for It:

    • Never provide personal or payment information over the phone unless you initiated the call.

    • Hang up and contact your dealer, insurer, or warranty provider directly using verified contact information.

    • Report suspicious calls to the FTC or your local authorities.

    At Central Valley Towing & Automotive, we care about your safety—both on the road and off. If you're unsure about a warranty or service call, feel free to give us a call at (559) 734-4028 and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

  • eUnfortunately, once personal or financial information is shared with a scammer, it can be difficult—or impossible—to recover. However, there are important steps you can take:

    Report the Scam:

    • File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

    • Contact the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) if you received the scam call or text

    Protect Your Finances:

    • Dispute any unauthorized charges with your bank or credit card company right away

    • Monitor your accounts for unusual activity

    Safeguard Your Identity:

    • Consider enrolling in a credit monitoring or identity theft protection service

    • Place a fraud alert on your credit reports through Equifax, Experian, or TransUnion

    Staying vigilant is key. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts—and always reach out to verified sources for support.

  • Regulators allege that many of the fake auto warranty robocalls—which deceive consumers into giving up personal and financial information—can be traced back to a scheme operated by Roy Cox Jr., Aaron Michael Jones, and entities associated with Sumco Panama. These individuals are accused of running a massive robocall ring that has targeted millions of people across the U.S.

    Federal agencies like the FTC and FCC are actively investigating and working to shut down these operations, but in the meantime, it's critical to stay alert and protect your information.

  • If you’re concerned that your warranty or insurance may actually have expired, follow these steps:

    1. Hang up immediately if you suspect the call is a scam.

    2. Contact your car dealer or insurer directly to inquire about your current policy and verify its status.

    At Central Valley Towing & Automotive, we’re here to help with any auto repair or maintenance needs. Whether you're due for a service or have questions about your warranty, we’ve got you covered. Call us today at (559) 734-4028 or visit us in Visalia to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment!